Obashola Ayomide Ridwan, the group said residents are facing persistent killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks without sufficient protection from security agencies.
The Kwara South Development Forum has raised serious concerns over escalating insecurity across communities in Kwara South Senatorial District, accusing both the Kwara State and Nigerian governments of abandoning residents as towns are increasingly deserted due to repeated attacks by suspected terrorists.
In a statement on Tuesday signed by the forum’s Acting Speaker, Obashola Ayomide Ridwan, the group said residents are facing persistent killings, kidnappings, and violent attacks without sufficient protection from security agencies.
The forum highlighted that traditional rulers in the region have become prime targets.
It recalled the February 2024 killing of Oba Segun Aremu-Cole, the traditional ruler of Koro town in Ekiti Local Government Area, as a turning point that signaled a disturbing trend of targeted attacks against royal fathers and community leaders.
“Traditional rulers in Kwara South have been victims of insecurity. Terrorists killed the traditional ruler of Koro town, Oba Segun Aremu-Cole, in February 2024, and have since abducted other rulers, including Oba Bayagan of Ifelodun Local Government Area,” the statement said.
The forum also cited a January 1, 2026 attack when gunmen abducted the Oniwo of Afin, Oba Simeon Olanipek, along with his son Olaolu, in Ile-Ire, Ifelodun Local Government Area.
Churches have not been spared. Worshippers were recently kidnapped during attacks in Eruku and Omugo communities, according to the group.
The repeated violence has forced many families to flee or sell properties to pay ransoms. “Over 20 communities in Kwara South have been deserted as residents seek safety, yet the government appears unconcerned,” the statement said.
Local vigilantes attempting to defend their communities have also suffered casualties due to inadequate weapons and resources.
The forum reported that two vigilantes were killed in Oke Oyan last week, while a prominent vigilante commander died in Ìgbàjá confronting terrorists last year.
The forum accused security agencies in Kwara State of negligence and ignoring intelligence reports that could have prevented attacks.
Community leader Elder Oyin-Zubair revealed that the Joint Security Watch had previously warned authorities about imminent threats in three local government areas, but the alerts were allegedly ignored.
Residents now feel abandoned despite the severity of the crisis. “Our people continue to be kidnapped, and many remain in captivity because ransoms have not been paid,” the forum said.
The group urged both the Kwara State and Federal Governments to intervene immediately by deploying more security forces and adequately equipping local vigilantes with weapons, mobility, and modern tools needed to confront terrorists.
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